That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:3
This verse always reminds me of a similar one in Jeremiah: “They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green” (Jeremiah 17:8). Jeremiah describes the person as “one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him” (verse 7). While in this verse, the person is described as one, “whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night” (verse 2).
Those who trust in the Lord, and have confidence in him, will be those who understand and appreciate God’s directives, knowing his ways are best. Therefore they apply his principles to their daily routines. As we establish God and his ways as foundational for our lives, we develop confidence in him. We find we have a source of refreshment (streams of water) which keeps our spiritual life fresh and vibrant. We have a source of strength we can draw upon when the “heat” or the pressure of circumstances is upon us, and we have a source of encouragement that helps us to grow spiritually strong.
The Psalmist tells us that these people prosper in whatever they do. Jeremiah says something similar using imagery, “its leaves are always green.” The world should see Christians coping well and enjoying life, regardless of their circumstances.
Christians are like trees by a river. You can’t see their roots but you know they are there, providing water and nutrients to enable the tree not just to survive, but to grow and flourish.
